Interaction of nanosecond laser pulses with plastic foams

Some results of an experimental and theoretical study of the interaction of laser pulses with plastic foams are reported. The propagation velocity of a hydrodynamic peturbation which was initiated in foam target under the action of a laser pulse with intensityq≈2·10¹³ W/cm² and the velocity distribution function of plasma ions were measured; the preliminary results of time-integrated spectroscopic measurements of an intense red-shifted signal are also reported. A self-consistent model of the foam target’s laser plasma formed in a hydrodynamic mode was derived. The predictions of this model are consistent with experimental results. A model of microprocesses of laser plasma formation in a structured material was also developed. The results of numerical simulations by 1D and 2D computer codes are also reported. Original article submitted in English May 25, 1997.